An election promise by Maitland councillor Philip Penfold has received overwhelming support.

We need to think ahead and not be afraid to make big decisions for our long term future.

Maitland's Councillor Philip Penfold.

A Fairfax Media poll conducted last week revealed that 82.08 per cent of voters believed Maitland needs a multi-level car park while 17.92 per cent said they did not.

Cr Penfold, who will run for mayor at the September Local Government election, announced last week plans to push for an urgent report into Central Business District parking, including consideration of a multi-storey parking station in Elgin Street, if he is elected to mayor or re-elected as a councillor.

“The feedback has been very positive since the announcement of a broad investigation and consideration of multi-deck parking,” Cr Penfold said.

“I’m not surprised by the readers’ high favourable response.

“Council surveys of the community’s wants consistently show their desire for improved parking.

“It is important that the next council act on the views of the informed community,” he said.

“Some of the comments I have received from constituents have been that this is something that’s definitely needed, a no brainer.”

Asked how the project would be bankrolled, Cr Penfold said there were options including a combination of developer contributions, and borrowings."

“Council holds many millions in developer contributions, some of which may be appropriate to use for parking, though I expect borrowing for this infrastructure investment will be appropriate,” he said.

“We need to think ahead and not be afraid to make big decisions for our long-term future.”

Cr Penfold said his independent team of council candidates had agreed that roads, parking, and traffic would be a key focus, should they be elected in September.

He said the opening of Aldi in Central Maitland could create additional demand on parking. Aldi Australia confirmed in May it will open in Maitland’s Hunter Mall.